Safe Driving Tips for the Winter

December 17th, 2021 by

Driving in the winter can be dangerous with slick and icy roads, snow pouring down, and ominous fog. And, with that, comes Charlotte Toyota road hazards and car accidents. At Toyota of N Charlotte, we know that staying safe is your top priority. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of safe driving tips to stay safe on those icy roads this winter. Let’s dive in!

Charlotte Toyota driver

411 on Safe Driving Tips 

Tip #1 Avoid it. 

One of the best Charlotte Toyota safe driving tips is to avoid driving when the conditions are bad outside. Just curl up on your couch with a cup of hot cocoa, a cozy blanket, and your fav Christmas movie. Vibe check!

Tip #2 Extra Time. 

It’s also good practice to allow yourself some extra time to drive on those snowy highways. You’ll also need to allow at least three car lengths in front of you just in case you have to slam on your brakes suddenly (or catch some black ice). Just stay calm and coast on.

Tip #3 Slow Down. 

Another great Charlotte Toyota safe driving tip is to slow down. It’s safer to drive at a slower speed so that your car doesn’t spin out of control. It’s easier for a car to lose control on snow and ice due to poor traction. Keep in mind that bridges and overpasses freeze first, so take caution.

Tip #4 Use Those Lights. 

Also, you should practice your Charlotte Toyota safe driving tips even more so during the night. Your visibility will be decreased at night, so it’s harder to see if the roads are icy or if there’s another Charlotte Toyota road hazard. However, to be extra safe, you should continue to use your lights during the day, too.

Tip #5 Sand is Your Friend. 

It’s pretty hard to avoid getting stuck in the snow during those winter months. That’s why you should always keep a bag of sand or even cat litter in your car. If you do get stuck, just place the sand or cat litter underneath your Charlotte Toyota car tire, straighten the wheels, and accelerate slowly. This should do the trick!

Tip #6 Utilize the Defrost Button! 

Also, you should always utilize the defrost button. We know your visibility is already reduced when it’s snowing, so no need to make it worse on your eyes. This little, handy button (or switch) will make sure ice stays off of your windshield and makes life easier for you.

Tip #7 Black Ice. 

The last safe driving tip we have for you is beware of black ice. The pavement will look like it’s just wet, but it’s ice! This isn’t super common during the day, but at night when the temperature drops, it becomes more prevalent due to freezing temperatures.

Visit Toyota of N Charlotte Today!

If you want more Charlotte Toyota safe driving tips, then come visit our dealership! Just book an appointment ahead of time at 13429 Statesville Road.

Posted in Toyota Tips